Manager Dies After Being Discharged From Hospital

The General Manager of the Kisumu-based media station Nam Lolwe FM has passed away. Washington Ochieng Oguya died following a short illness early Saturday, September 27, morning at his home in Chiga, Kisumu East.

The respected media leader passed away just a day after being discharged from the hospital. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from colleagues, listeners, and leaders in the country.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, in a statement shared on Saturday, announced the passing of Oguya with “profound sorrow and a heavy heart,” describing it as a “painful loss to the station and the broader community it serves.”

Owalo noted that Oguya, widely respected for his humility and professionalism, led Nam Lolwe FM through a period of growth and influence, cementing its status as one of the most trusted local media voices in western Kenya.

“Mr. Oguya will be remembered as a dedicated leader whose stewardship of the station strengthened its place as a trusted voice of the community,” the condolence statement by Owalo read.

The Deputy Chief of Staff also mourned the loss as a major blow to the media fraternity.

“His humility, commitment, and service left an indelible mark not only on the media fraternity but also on the wider society that benefitted from the station’s work,” he added, while extending heartfelt condolences to the Oguya family and Radio Nam Lolwe team.

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Nam Lolwe FM announces manager’s death

On his part, Nam Lolwe FM Assistant Manager Fredrick Gombe, while announcing Oguya’s death, extended his condolences to the family of the departed manager.

“I regret to inform you of the demise of our General Manager Washington Oguya which occurred this morning at his home in Chiga. I would wish to extend my deepest condolences to the family and Nam Lolwe fraternity as a whole. More information to be shared accordingly. Let’s keep the family in prayers during this difficult moment,” he said.

Nam Lolwe FM was established in Kisumu City in 2007 with the goal of providing balanced information, education, and entertainment in the Luo language to the local community.

The station broadcasts 24 hours a day, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary music, news, and incisive debates on various socio-economic issues, thereby serving as a critical platform for the Luo-speaking audience to engage with national conversations.

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It is known for its interactive programs, particularly its agribusiness segment, which aims to enhance farmers’ access to crucial market and production information. Oguya had worked at the station for over 15 years

Oguya mourned by former colleagues

Among those mourning the seasoned media leader is journalist David Bondo, who credited the late media manager with shaping his career.

“On 10th August 2009, he gave me employment without asking to see my physical CV, not even academic papers… He shaped my future in the media industry. He instilled discipline in me. I will miss you heavily,” Bondo said.

Bondo worked under Oguya for 10 years and later founded Jowi FM, formerly Ratego FM. Despite leaving Nam Lolwe, he said Oguya remained a mentor and father figure.

Another heartfelt tribute came from Jared Ooko, now serving with the Migori County Government. Ooko recalled how Oguya gave him a lifeline when he was abruptly fired from Dala FM in early 2018.

“The late Washington Ochieng Oguya held my hand in January 2018… Without asking many questions, he only requested my CV and immediately posted me to Migori,” said Ooko, who went on to represent Nam Lolwe FM in Migori County before transitioning to government communications.

He praised Oguya for his support and integrity and revealed that even after leaving the station, the seasoned journalist kept in touch and continued offering encouragement.

Journalists’ Network message of condolence

The Lake Region Journalists’ Network (LRJN) also issued a moving tribute, praising Oguya as a “visionary leader” and a champion of young journalists and community media.

“Mr. Oguya was not only a seasoned media professional but also a visionary leader who steered Radio Nam Lolwe with dedication, passion, and commitment,” read the LRJN’s statement. “His contribution to the growth of community media and the empowerment of young journalists in the region will remain etched in our memories.”

The network said it had received news of his death with “great shock and deep sorrow,” and called on colleagues to honor his legacy by upholding the standards he set.

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